Earlier this week, the Wakefield City Centre Management Board conducted its inaugural meeting, outlining its objectives for the future.
The Board brings together key stakeholders from various sectors across the city, collaborating with Council members to enact transformative changes that will enhance both the social and economic aspects of city life.
Its primary goal is to leverage the skills, experience, and resources of its members to address a range of issues. These issues span from addressing crime and anti-social behaviour to revitalising the cityscape by attracting new investments, thereby reducing the number of vacant shop units. The Board is committed to supporting both the daytime and nighttime economies and implementing improvements for the benefit of all.
Representatives from the Police, Public Health, Arriva, Trinity shopping centre, Wakefield Cathedral, Wakefield Civic Society, and other pivotal businesses and organisations constitute the Board.
By uniting these influential entities, the City Centre Management Board positions itself more effectively to advocate for government support if additional assistance is needed.
Chairing the inaugural meeting, Cllr Michael Graham, Cabinet Member for Regeneration & Economic Growth, said: “Wakefield is such a great city, with so much going for it. But, like all cities, it faces its own set of unique challenges.
“We have established this board in response to the concerns and questions raised by residents and city-based businesses. Our objectives are to improve our streets and spaces, improve public safety, support existing and new businesses in Wakefield, develop and support local partnerships, and improve the high street offer.
“These meetings will focus on being responsive, we know local businesses and residents want quick results and don’t want solutions to today’s problems months or years from now. Together, the Council and Board Members will commit to short-term collaborative action-plans that will make the city a safer, thriving place everyone can enjoy.”
Graham emphasized the board’s commitment to responsiveness, recognizing the community’s desire for swift results. The Council and Board Members will collaboratively develop short-term action plans during these meetings, addressing current issues promptly.
The Wakefield City Centre Management Board will convene quarterly, sharing outcomes and updates through its newsletter. To subscribe to the newsletter, please visit: https://wakefieldcouncil.com/CCBizNews
